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Tbilisi, Tbilisi Province to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from $30: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Tbilisi, Georgia
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Tbilisi to Istanbul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$30 by busBest price
1330 kmDistance
3h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tbilisi to Istanbul with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  42m
Estimated price
$94-372
Recommended
Company
Metro Turizm
Bus
Average Duration
32h  15m
Estimated price
$30-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1330 km
Duration: 3h 12m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
40h  46m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
37h  30m
Estimated price
$67-139
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  12m
Estimated price
$167-458
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
21h  45m
Estimated price
$200-290

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $90 $85 $63 $76 $84 $81 $104
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Tbilisi to Istanbul

The journey from Tbilisi to Istanbul offers an intriguing contrast between Tbilisi's charming cobblestone streets and vibrant culture and Istanbul's bustling markets and rich historical tapestry.

Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Karaköy
• Trendy cafes and street art abound.
• Proximity to the Bosphorus waterfront.
Sultanahmet
• Historic sites like Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
• Vibrant atmosphere with local eateries.
Kadıköy
• Bustling markets and diverse cuisine.
• Lively nightlife and arts scene.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits to Istanbul's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Hagia Sophia
Early mornings before 10 AM offer fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere.
Topkapi Palace
Visit on weekdays, especially in the afternoon, to avoid long lines.
Grand Bazaar
Visit early in the morning for quieter shopping and fewer crowds.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) the most pleasant times to visit. Weather influences your activities, so prepare for potential rain in winter and hot days in summer to enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Istanbul

Don’t miss trying the succulent İskender kebab at Bursa Kebapçısı, where tender meat is served over a bed of pita with a rich tomato sauce and creamy yogurt, creating a flavor profile distinct from Tbilisi's hearty stews. The vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients elevate the dining experience, offering a delightful contrast to the cherished Georgian culinary traditions.

Tbilisi - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Tbilisi and Istanbul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Tbilisi Airport (TBS) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$110-550

Plane from Tbilisi Airport (TBS) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

Average Duration
2h 34m
Estimated price
$140-600
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Tbilisi Airport (TBS) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$90-390

Plane from Tbilisi Airport (TBS) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) via Antalya

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$90-390
Train
Contact phone
+90 444 8 233
Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr

Train from Ayrilikcesme to Yenikapi

Average Duration
14m
Estimated price
$1-3

Train from Akyaka to Kars

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$1-3

Train from Kars to Sivas

Average Duration
14h 50m
Estimated price
$7-10

Train from Sivas to Ankara

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$8-11

Train from Ankara to Istanbul Söğütlüçeşme

Average Duration
4h 23m
Estimated price
$6-9
Contact phone
1-84
Website
railway.am

Train from Tbilisi to Gyumri

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$17-70
Bus
Contact phone
0850 222 34 55
Website
metroturizm.com.tr

Bus from Tbilisi to Istanbul Aksaray

Average Duration
32h 15m
Estimated price
$30-45
Contact phone
+995 555 68 50 05
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Tbilisi Ortachala Bus Station to Vladikavkaz 1 Bus station

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
0-0
Website
luksyilmazturizm.com

Bus from Vladikavkaz 1 Bus station to Emniyet Otogar

Average Duration
36h 41m
Estimated price
87-0

Tbilisi to Istanbul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Tbilisi and Istanbul offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Tbilisi to Istanbul, covering a distance of 1641.5 km. 💸 The cost of driving from Tbilisi to Istanbul ranges from €184 to €267, providing flexibility for different budgets. 🌆 Arrive in Istanbul after approximately 21 hours and 45 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this bustling metropolis.
Average price
€185 - €268
🚂 Embark on an unforgettable train journey from Tbilisi to Istanbul spanning approximately 37 hours and 30 minutes. 💸 Prices for a train ticket between Tbilisi and Istanbul can range from €62 to €128, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching transportation experience.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard catering services vary slightly among operators, but both Georgian Railways and Turkish Railways typically offer light snacks and beverages. You can find a dining car or trolley service with options like tea, coffee, and local pastries. It’s a good idea to carry some bottled water or snacks of your own, especially for longer journeys.
• The train journey generally offers three classes of seating: First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class usually provides the most spacious seats and additional perks like complimentary meals and priority boarding. Business Class is a bit more affordable but still comfortable with decent legroom and some refreshments, while Economy offers basic seating at a lower price point. Make sure to book in advance to secure the class of your choice.
• The primary operators for the Tbilisi to Istanbul route are Georgian Railways and Turkish Railways. You can find more information and book tickets through their respective websites: Georgian Railways and Turkish Railways. For other useful links, check Istanbul Public Transport for schedules and Sirkeci Station maps.
🛫 Flying from Tbilisi to Istanbul is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that takes only 2 hours and 10 minutes. Both Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines operate flights between Tbilisi Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul. 🌍 The total duration of the journey from Tbilisi to Istanbul by plane is around 3 hours and 12 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Istanbul and Tbilisi can range from €154 to €422, offering travelers a variety of options depending on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Tbilisi Airport
Arrival Point
Sabiha Gokcen Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines as they both offer competitive fares and convenient schedules, ensuring a smoother transition from Tbilisi to Istanbul.
• Upon arrival at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, be prepared for potential long lines at customs; it's advisable to have your documents ready, and consider using the express line if available.
• Expect to pay around 250 to 300 Turkish Lira (approximately $10 to $12) for a taxi ride from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to the city center of Istanbul; alternatively, you can use public transportation for a more cost-effective option.
🚌 The journey from Tbilisi to Istanbul by bus offers a direct and convenient option for travelers. The bus departs once daily and takes approximately 32 hours and 15 minutes to reach Istanbul Aksaray. 💰 Ticket prices for the Tbilisi to Istanbul bus range from €28 to €41, providing an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore these two vibrant cities in a budget-friendly manner.
Departure Point
Tbilisi station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Aksaray station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Tbilisi to Istanbul.

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The distance between Tbilisi and Istanbul is approximately 827 miles or 1016.9 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 37 hours and 40 minutes to reach Istanbul from Tbilisi. By taking a flight to Sabiha Gokcen and then a train, it takes around 6 hours and 31 minutes. By plane, it takes approximately 5 hours and 46 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes approximately 21 hours and 41 minutes from Istanbul to Tbilisi, and by bus, it takes around 32 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Tbilisi to Istanbul would be by bus, with prices ranging from €24-€679. Although it is the longest option, taking approximately 32 hours and 15 minutes, it offers a more affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. On the other hand, for those prioritizing time efficiency, flying is the quickest option, taking only 5 hours and 46 minutes, although it comes at a higher cost ranging from €118-€380.
The price range for a train journey from Tbilisi to Istanbul is between €61 and €126. On the other hand, the prices for a bus between Istanbul and Tbilisi can vary significantly, ranging from €24 to €679. It is important to check the specific dates, times, and providers to get the most accurate and up-to-date prices for your travel plans.
To get from Tbilisi to Istanbul without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1017 miles, and it takes around 21 hours and 41 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices for renting a car and driving from Tbilisi to Istanbul range from €172 to €263, depending on the type of car and rental agency.
To travel from Tbilisi to Istanbul without a car, there are a few options available. The quickest and most convenient way is to fly, which takes approximately 5 hours and 46 minutes and costs between €118-€380. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 32 hours and 15 minutes and costs between €24-€679. If you prefer a more leisurely journey, you can also take a train, which takes approximately 37 hours and 40 minutes and costs between €59-€127.
Yes, there is a direct link between Tbilisi and Istanbul. MetroTurizm operates a daily bus service that departs from Tbilisi and arrives at Istanbul Aksaray. The journey takes approximately 32 hours and 15 minutes. This is the most direct and convenient mode of transportation between the two cities.
The flight duration between Tbilisi and Istanbul is typically around 2 hours and 30 minutes for a direct flight. The cost of a flight ticket between the two cities can range from €120 to €376, depending on factors such as the airline and class of travel. It's always recommended to check for the best deals and prices by comparing different airlines and booking in advance to get the most affordable options.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Istanbul with over 1596 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at a budget-friendly rate of €22. Visitors can find a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, ensuring there is something to suit every traveler's preferences and budget. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.